Made Things

by Adrian Tchaikovsky
Made Things cover
Good Books rating 4.06
Fantasy
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  • ID: 1090
  • Added: 2025-09-25
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9781250232984
  • Publisher: Macmillan + ORM
  • Published: 2025-09-23
  • Reviews: 4

Welcome to Fountains Parish, a city where ambition withers and desperation thrives. Coppelia, a cunning street thief, relies on her unusual companions—tiny, puppet-like beings made of wood and metal—to navigate the treacherous underworld. Their uneasy partnership is tested when a shocking discovery forces them to question everything they know. As they delve deeper into the mysteries of their world, they must rally their unique abilities to confront a looming danger that could destroy their city. Award-winning author Adrian Tchaikovsky weaves a dark fantasy tale of unlikely heroes and the power of unexpected alliances.

Reviews
The StoryGraph · thecaptainsquarters · 2025-10-17
loved 4.75

They loved the handling of gender and the backstory of the characters' origins. The friendship between the characters was particularly touching.

The reviewer was deeply moved by the exploration of gender and the rich backstory of the characters' origins. They found the friendship between the characters to be a heartwarming and central element of the story. The depth of the characters and their plans for the future added layers to the narrative, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    I loved that how they dealt with gender.

    I loved the back story of their origins.

    And I loved their friendship with Coppelia.

clsiewert.wordpress.com · 2021-10-25
whimsical 3.50

The book is praised for its whimsical and dark fantasy elements, with a particular appreciation for the unique world-building and character dynamics. The reviewer finds the story engaging and enjoyable, despite some minor criticisms.

The reviewer is drawn to the whimsical yet dark tone of the book, which they find refreshing and engaging. They particularly appreciate the unique world-building and the dynamic between the characters, Tef and Arc. The story is seen as a delightful blend of fantasy and adventure, with a touch of magic that adds depth to the narrative. The reviewer also notes that while the story is enjoyable, there are moments where the pacing could be improved, but overall, it's a satisfying read.

Quick quotes

    On the upside, I can now spell 'Tchaikovsky.'

    Made Things is a story of many layers.

    It's a quick, enjoyable read with some heft to it.

Fantasy Literature · 2019-11-19
whimsical 4.00

The book is noted for its lighter tone compared to the author's previous works, despite containing violence. The reviewer enjoys the blend of whimsy and serious themes, making it a unique and enjoyable read.

This reviewer finds 'Made Things' to be a much lighter work compared to the author's previous intense novels, yet it still manages to incorporate a fair amount of violence and dark themes. The blend of whimsy and seriousness creates a unique and enjoyable reading experience. They appreciate the way the story balances these elements, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The reviewer also notes the rich world-building and the engaging characters that make the story stand out.

Quick quotes

    After the horror-steeped intensity of Walking to Aldebaran, Made Things feels like a much lighter work, despite a fair amount of violence and dark themes.

    The blend of whimsy and seriousness creates a unique and enjoyable reading experience.

    The rich world-building and engaging characters make 'Made Things' a standout read.

fantasyliterature.com · 2019-11-19
whimsical 4.00

The book is praised for its whimsical elements and well-drawn characters, making it a quick yet meaningful read. The reviewer appreciates the depth and insight provided by the story.

This reviewer finds Made Things to be a quick yet enjoyable read that offers more substance than one might expect from a novella. They are particularly drawn to the whimsical elements, such as the living puppets, and the well-drawn characters that bring the story to life. The reviewer also appreciates the insightful commentary on various themes, making the book a rewarding experience. They note that the story has a certain charm that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    It's a quick, enjoyable read with some heft to it.

    Come for the whimsy of the living puppets; stay for the well-drawn characters and insightful commentary.

    Made Things is a dark yet whimsical fantasy tale full of magic, half-mages and puppet companions.

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